Top Australian NRL battler Ryan Hinchcliffe has pledged to lead by example after being made captain for the injury-hit Huddersfield Giants’ opening home Super League XXI clash against Wigan Warriors tonight.

With regular skipper Danny Brough (dead leg) one of seven first-choice Huddersfield players ruled out through injury, experienced hooker Hinchcliffe will lead out the side at the John Smith’s Stadium.

He knows it’s going to be a tough task, with several of the club’s younger players needing to step up against last season’s beaten Grand Finalists.

But former Melbourne Storm star Hinchcliffe believes that adds to the exciting challenge ahead.

“To be told I’d be the captain for Huddersfield Giants is an absolute honour, and a position I don’t take lightly,” said the 31-year-old.

“I was fortunate enough to captain the Storm on about half-a-dozen occasions and I thoroughly enjoyed the extra responsibility the role brings.

“To be honest, it wasn’t quite under the same backs-against-the-wall circumstance we find ourselves in at the Giants right now, but that just adds to the excitement of the challenge ahead.

“Tonight is a great opportunity for our squad to grow strength from the performances of the young boys who I know will relish the chance to show what they can do at this level.

“I see my own role as trying to keep things simple and make sure everyone gets their job done.